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Cabinet member for adult social care, Councillor Mel Few, emphasised the need for additional funding as he announced a predicted expenditure of £55 million for the coming financial year.

He added "like other counties", Surrey has an ageing population and demand for services supporting people with learning disabilities has risen by more than 40% since 2010.

Meanwhile, the total number of people receiving funded care has risen by 23% from 2011, including increases of around 40% of people with physical and sensory disabilities, learning disabilities and mental health challenges.

SCC leader Councillor David Hodge recommended the 5.99% rise to the full council (Image: TMS)

Cabinet member for children, Councillor Clare Curran, said: "No one wants to pay 5.99% but we were elected to do this job and we have to look out for the people we represent.

"If we don't do it, no one else will."

Cllr Hodge also outlined the diminishing funding provided by central government, with its core funding having been reduced by more than £200 million since 2010.

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He said: "Surrey will have to pay more than £26 million to other parts of the country to help subsidise there services," adding it was a move he said he was "not impressed" by and would keep a close eye on.

"I think the people of Surrey make a significant contribution to this country," he added.

Both the proposed council tax hike and budget are recommended for final approval at a meeting of the full council next Tuesday afternoon (February 6).

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